January is black diamond month.
Remember the episode on Sex in the City when Carrie Bradshaw received a black diamond engagement ring from Mr. Big? Here are 10 facts about the sexy stones by Amit Sofer, President of Roberto Demeglio – a high-end jewelry line which features amazing black diamonds.
(Image: Mona Lisa Black & White Diamond Bracelet by Roberto Demeglio)
- Not All Black Diamonds Are Black. Its natural color is black or dark grey, and it is more porous than other diamonds.
- They Have A Portuguese Name. Black diamonds are also called Carbonado. A name coined by the Portuguese because of the diamond’s resemblance to porous charcoal.
- They Definitely Are Unique. Naturally made black diamonds are the rarest among all diamonds.
- Black Diamonds Are Very Old. Black diamonds originated on earth 3.5 billion years ago!
- They Are Only Found In Two Places. They are found in Central African Republic and Brazil, with Brazil being the major source.
- Some Say They Are From Outer Space. Black Diamonds are said to have their origin in interstellar space, due to the impact of an asteroid.
- Transparency Is A Plus. Translucent or semi-transparent black diamonds are very rare and naturally command a very high price.
- Most Black Diamonds Are Man-Made. Most of the black diamonds that are on the market today are man-made. Man-made black diamonds go through a treatment process to give them their black color as well as uniformity.
- Black Diamonds Are Evaluated The Same Way As White Diamonds. Even if the diamond is treated, it is still a real diamond, and its value will be based on the 4 Cs – carat, clarity, cut and color. The black color should be uniform throughout the diamond and the surface should be sparkling and glossy.
- The Fifth Largest Diamond In The World Is A Black Diamond. The Spirit of de Grisogono at 312.24 carats is the world’s largest cut black diamond, and the world’s 5th largest diamond.
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